Poison Ivy and poison sumac are kind of plants that causes itchy rash on your skin. A chemical by name urushiol is responsible for causing such itchy rash. It is enough if your clothing just brushes with the leaves of this plant for developing rash. Often people who come in contact with these plants are prone to develop rash. However this type of rash does not spread to others and it resolves within few days without any treatment. Home remedies are enough for treating poison ivy rash.
1. Washing With Water
- If you know that you have accidentally touched this toxic plant it is best to wash your fingers and your entire clothing thoroughly. Allergy inducing resin called urushiol is highly toxic and remains in your clothing unless it is washed and dried in sunlight.
- The ideal way to get rid of itchy rash after being exposed to poison ivy is by washing. You can rush to the nearest water supply and use mild soap for washing your fingers and hands thoroughly.
- In case water is not available nearby, you can use mild alcohol for washing your fingers. Just dip your fingers in the alcohol for few minutes so that the resin gets dissolved in it.
2. Juice Of Certain Plants
If you are in the woods and can find touch-me-not plant or jewelweed plant nearby it can give you relief from itching. Crush few leaves of these plants and apply the juice directly on the itchy area of the skin. The stems and leaves of these plants can work as antidote for poison ivy rash.
3. Aloe Vera
You can use aloe Vera leaves for getting quick relief from itching caused by poison ivy. Aloe Vera is enriched with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory property and hence useful in reducing itchy rash caused by poison ivy or poison oak. Alternatively you can use aloe Vera cream or lotion at home for reducing itchy feeling.
4. Vinegar
Any vinegar solution available at home can become an excellent remedy for controlling itching of poison ivy. Add about half a cup of vinegar in a cup of water. Apply this paste on the affected area liberally. You can dip a soft cloth in this solution and wrap it on the skin to get quick relief from itching.